This is an interesting modern take on the Salem witches’ story. The focus is still on young women and the lies that are told with perpetuate and cause damage to their peers. The focus here is on social media and how quickly narratives can spread online, whether they are true or not, and the impact this can have on people. This premise works really well, and we can easily understand how the rumours can take off.
Using a wide range of performance areas including dance, physical theatre, multi-media elements and voiceovers, this helps to create a non-typical adaptation. There are sections which work particularly well such as when the young women circle the one being singled-out. The reverse movement brings a wonderfully eerie impression to the stage and as it speeds up it feels very other-worldly.
Some elements do not work as well. There are messages projected onto a screen and these are not legible, although there is a voiceover. The dancers are not quite in sync all the time, so this lessens the strength of group movements. The onstage costume changing does not enhance the storytelling. Overall, however, this is a really good concept which, with some further enhancement, could become excellent.
Show Time: 14-16 Aug @ 11:25
Running time: 50 mins
Ticket Prices: £5.50-£9
https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/salem-the-witch-trials-of-today
Warnings: Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes. Accessible entry: Through Wheelchair access entrance, then on same level through to Theatre. Wheelchair access type: Level Access, Lift (Building Lift). Stairs: None. Number of stairs is provided as guidance and is not in addition to any wheelchair access type (lift/ramp etc) stated above. Wheelchair Access, Wheelchair Accessible Toilets, Audio Enhancement System.
Babes in arms policy: Babies are required to have a complimentary ticket. Policy applies to: Children under 2 years. Age suitability: 12+ (Guideline).